Social Enterprise Track

Presented by the Social Enterprise Initiative, this track is for new ventures that create pattern-breaking social change.
Winners of the 2023 Social Enterprise Track of the New Venture Competition accept their trophy.
$75,000
Grand Prize
$25,000
Runner-Up Prize
$5,000
Crowd Favorite Prize

The Social Enterprise Track provides an opportunity for eligible graduate students across Harvard University to explore social entrepreneurship and test ideas for social innovation in a rigorous and supportive environment. Social Enterprise Track entries may include nonprofit, for-profit, and hybrid model business plans.

2024 Winners

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    2024 New Venture Competition Winner, Social Enterprise Track: Solara

    Solara provides an on-demand solar irrigation service to Indian farmers, increasing their access to affordable, reliable, and clean irrigation. Team: Rea Savla, MBA 2024; Vishesh Mehta

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    2024 New Venture Competition Runner-Up, Social Enterprise Track: Trans Health HQ

    Trans Health HQ is a tool built by the trans community that addresses clinicians’ barriers around learning and advocacy. Team: Ivan Hsiao, MPH 2024.

  • How to Register & Key Dates

    The key steps in the process & deadlines.

  • Eligibility

    The Social Enterprise Track is open to students in good standing who are enrolled in a full-time graduate degree program at Harvard University.

  • Judging

    Social Enterprise ideas are evaluated on their potential to become the basis of a viable new venture and will focus on the idea, its potential for social value creation, and the likelihood of achieving success based upon the team’s plan and experience.

  • Prizes & Benefits

    Descriptions of the cash and in-kind prizes for winning teams.

  • Tools

    Across Harvard Business School and beyond, resources are available for you as you consider and bring to life an idea for the New Venture Competition.

  • Find Teammates

    Find teammates from across Harvard to form your New Venture Competition team.